What does a Home insurance policy not cover?

Be careful of homeowners policy exclusions

Unfortunately, bad things happen every day - from devastating floods to burglaries. But do you know exactly what your homeowner's insurance would cover if any tragedy or catastrophe came along? The reality is that home insurance policies have limitations and exceptions, so you need to know what's included in yours and get additional coverage if necessary.

Here is a list of weird exclusions some insurers are now doing. Some make sense – like dog attacks. But other things are unexpected, like trampolines not being covered.

Other exclusions include expensive jewelry (you will need additional rider if you have a large amount of jewelry).

On the question of mold, that’s no longer covered by many homeowner insurance policies. Mold became a big issue, particularly in Florida, and it’s been cut out of the picture step by step, insurer by insurer.

Sewer backup is often not included in homeowner insurance policies. Clark always recommends that you buy the inexpensive rider from your insurer and add it to your policy. If it does happen to you, you want to know you are in fact covered.

Fire is still covered. That seems to be a constant year over year, which is why people sometimes refer to homeowners policies as “fire policies.”

Backyard pools offer so much fun in the sun. But unfortunately, pools are also where many accidents can happen.Tragically, an average of 3,533 fatal unintentional drownings (non-boating related) took place each year in the United States. Among children from 1 to 4 years old, most drowned in someone's residential pool. So if you have a pool, or plan on getting one, Barry suggests you talk with your insurance agent about purchasing an umbrella liability policy. This type of insurance gives you extra coverage in the event you are sued for injuries caused to others or damages to people's property.

Flood insurance

Flood insurance is one of those things that people routinely think they’re covered for under their homeowners policy.

But the reality is that damage from flooding is not covered under standard homeowners, renters or business insurance policies.

What will protect you in the event of flooding is an auto insurance policy with comprehensive coverage, according to the Insurance Information Institute. But because comprehensive coverage is not mandatory, not everyone has it.

So here’s a word to the wise: If you do have a comp policy, double-check with your auto insurer to make sure damage from flooding is covered.